ArtFire

This crazy lace agate has been framed in oxidized coiled copper wire and features two decorative spirals at the top of the pendant. Bands of wire that have been placed across the front and back of the stone hold it firmly in place. This agate has a really interesting pattern of grays, browns and just a hint of pale red. Suspended from a dainty, yet sturdy oxidized copper chain, this is a really lovely necklace that is understated and sophisticated.

Agate is a form of chalcedony which belongs to the microcrystalline family of quartz and it often displays banded opaline layers. Formed in the cavities of ancient lava when rain trickled in carrying minerals, the water would evaporate resulting in beautiful agate.

The earliest references to agate appear in the writings of Theophrastus (c.370-285BC). It is from these writings that it was discovered that Agate was named after the River Achates (since re-named River Dirillo) where it was first discovered in what is now Sicily. Those who first came across this beautiful gem quickly discovered that it had great potential as they were able to carved it and create wonderful decorations from it.

The ancient Romans called agate a stone of truth and it was thought to protect against the evil eye. Only the upper classes of ancient Rome adorned themselves in agate.

Crazy Lace Agate is a stone found in Mexico and is known for its bands which form intricate patterns in a wide variety of colors.

The necklace measures 19 inches / 48 cm in length and the pendant is one inch / 2.5 cm long.